On June 23, 1965, a Canadian Vickers PBV-1 Canso (OA-10 Canso) (registration CF-OFJ) operated by Newfoundland & Labrador Forestry Service was involved in an aviation accident near Catalina, Canada during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft lost control while performing a water-scooping maneuver during a firefighting mission. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A seaplane crashed into Catalina Bay during a water-scooping maneuver, resulting in one fatality and one injury.
What happened
During an aerial firefighting operation near Little Catalina, Newfoundland, a seaplane experienced a catastrophic loss of control. The aircraft was performing a scooping maneuver to collect water for fire suppression efforts when it departed from its intended flight path. Following the loss of control, the plane impacted the surface of Catalina Bay and subsequently sank.
As a result of the impact and the following submersion, the crew suffered significant casualties. The incident resulted in one fatality and one injury. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the event.
Findings
The accident occurred while the aircraft was executing a specialized maneuver designed for water collection.
The loss of control led to the immediate sinking of the vessel.
Probable cause
The aircraft lost control while performing a water-scooping maneuver during a firefighting mission.